Joybuy Insights

Buying sportswear: how to choose comfortable clothing without making the wrong purchase

Sportswear should suit the activity you use it for. A football shirt has different requirements from a T-shirt for everyday wear. Yet many people buy based solely on the brand name, colour or an attractive discount. As a result, trousers may be too warm for intense training, leggings may become see-through during movement, or the fit may disappoint after just a few washes.

So watch out for three common pitfalls:

  • Marketing language without clear specifications: terms such as “breathable” or “quick-drying” mean little if details about the material, fit and care instructions are missing.
  • The wrong fit: regular fit, slim fit and compression fit feel very different. Particularly with sports trousers, leggings and sports shorts, the fit determines how much freedom of movement you have.
  • Incorrect expectations about the material: cotton feels comfortable for everyday wear, while polyester is often chosen for lightweight training clothing. Neither material is automatically suitable for every activity.

Which sportswear suits the way you use it?

Start by considering the situation in which you will wear the garment most often. For fitness, running and team sports, lightweight sports tops and trousers are practical. For yoga, soft leggings or capri trousers with plenty of stretch are often more convenient. If you mainly work from home, run errands or want a casual outfit, you can look at jogging bottoms, sweatshirts and classic T-shirts.

The difference between men’s sportswear and women’s sportswear is not just a matter of colour. Size charts, waist height, leg length and cut can vary from one product to another. Always check the product page rather than simply ordering your usual size.

Three specifications to check in advance

1. Material and moisture management

A polyester sports shirt may be described as lightweight and quick-drying. The Nike Dri-FIT Academy Pants, for example, are listed as containing 100% polyester. Nike’s product description links Dri-FIT to moisture management; this is the brand’s own claim, so you should read it as a product specification rather than a guaranteed result for every user.

Cotton is often comfortable for casual clothing. The adidas Adicolor Classics 3-Stripes Tee is listed as 100% cotton and has a slim fit. This makes the shirt suitable for everyday wear, but for intense training, check whether the material and drying time suit the way you intend to use it.

Also pay attention to elastane. It generally provides more stretch, which is relevant for leggings, close-fitting sports shorts and boxer shorts. According to the product information, the Under Armour HG Armour Shorts contain 84% polyester and 16% elastane, with mesh panels made from a different composition.

2. Fit and sizing

A product described as “true to size” is not a substitute for a size chart. Measure your waist, chest or hips and compare them with the measurements on the product page. The adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants, for example, list waist ranges for each size. The trousers have a slim fit, an elasticated waistband with a drawstring and ribbed cuffs.

For loose-fitting training trousers or jogging bottoms, a regular fit is often more practical. With compression clothing, a close fit is part of the design. The Under Armour HG Armour Shorts are described as having a compression fit. If you prefer a less tight fit or are between sizes, the product information suggests considering one size larger.

3. Washing instructions and durability

The way you wash your sportswear affects its fit, colour and elasticity. Before buying, check whether you are prepared to care for the garment according to the label. The adidas fleece trousers are listed as requiring, among other things, cold washing on a delicate cycle, no bleaching and no tumble drying. According to the product information, the Under Armour joggers should be washed cold, turned inside out and dried at a low temperature.

A useful basic guide:

  • Wash dark sportswear inside out.
  • Do not use fabric softener on technical fabrics if the label advises against it.
  • Avoid high temperatures with elastane and prints.
  • Always check the physical care label when your order arrives.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black M

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black M

Why it suits this profile: These black trousers combine a recognisable casual look with fleece fabric, a drawstring and side pockets. That makes them suitable for wearing at home, on the go and during light activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the material, waist ranges, fit and care instructions. You therefore do not have to rely solely on the brand name or photograph.

Key benefit & advantages

70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester; elasticated waistband with drawstring; slim fit and side pockets.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee CW6952-071 L

Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee CW6952-071 L

Why it suits this profile: A dark grey football shirt with short sleeves and a regular fit for anyone who wants to wear their sportswear off the pitch too.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing specifies size L, regular fit, colour and composition. According to Nike’s product description, Dri-FIT is designed to manage moisture; check that this suits your personal preferences.

Key benefit & advantages

Short sleeves; crew neck; regular fit; suitable for football and casual wear.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Under Armour Men's Hg Armour Shorts Black Sportstyle Collection L

Under Armour Men's Hg Armour Shorts Black Sportstyle Collection L

Why it suits this profile: These close-fitting shorts are designed for training and as a base layer. The combination of elastane, mesh panels and a storage pocket suits high-intensity movement.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit is explicitly described as compression. This makes it clear in advance that these are not loose sports shorts. The size chart lists a waist range of 86–91 cm for L.

Key benefit & advantages

84% polyester and 16% elastane; strategically placed mesh panels; phone pocket; 15 cm short inseam according to the product information.

More sportswear worth considering

For women’s sportswear, leggings and capri trousers are popular choices. The Skechers Go Walk High Waisted 7/8 Legging is listed in black, size M, and made from nylon and elastane. With this type of clothing, pay particular attention to the waist height, stretch and length. A high waist can be comfortable for a yoga class, while for everyday wear you may prefer a less close-fitting pair of trousers.

For casual outfits, a sweatshirt and jogging bottoms are easy to combine. The adidas Trefoil Essentials Crew Sweatshirt has a regular fit, crew neck and a fleece composition of 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester. If you are mainly looking for a classic T-shirt, take a look at the adidas Adicolor Classics 3-Stripes Tee; this model has a slim fit and a cotton outer material.

Underwear is also part of a practical sports wardrobe. Reebok underwear is available in several 3-packs, including sports trunks and briefs. The composition varies by model. The Reebok Sports Trunks JAY, for example, are listed as containing 57% cotton, 38% polyester and 5% elastane. So check the material and washing instructions for each variant.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about sportswear

How often should you wash sportswear?

Wash sportswear after intensive use according to the care label. Do not leave sweaty clothing in a sports bag for an extended period. Washing in cold or lukewarm water and air-drying can help colours and elastic fibres stay in good condition for longer, provided the label allows it.

Which sportswear is suitable for fitness?

That depends on the type of training. For strength training, a flexible T-shirt and sports shorts or training trousers are practical. For intensive cardio, lightweight clothing with moisture management, according to the product description, may feel more comfortable. Also check that the seams, waistband and fit do not restrict you during squats, cycling or other movements.

How do I choose the right sportswear size?

Measure the relevant body measurements and compare them with the size chart for the specific model. With men’s sportswear, pay attention to the waist and inside leg measurement; with women’s sportswear, the waist, hips and length are often important. With compression clothing, the recommended fit is tighter than a regular fit. Use reviews and sizing information as a supplement, not as a replacement for the official chart.